The unique identifier code A tool for tracking and monitoring individuals reached with combination prevention.

During the 2012 fiscal year, the Program collected a total of 55,993 unique identifier codes, which represents almost 56,000 individuals reached with combination prevention in the region.

“PUM3181” is a man in Nicaragua who was reached by PASMO in April of 2012 under the USAID Combination Prevention Program for HIV in Central America. The first time he came into contact with the Program, he participated in face-to face outreach. In July, he participated in a behavior change communication activity known as “XY”, and in September another called “Decisiones”. Both of these behavior change methodologies are designed to allow participants reflect upon risky behaviors and understand how they are related to expressions of masculinities. Lastly, in September, PUM3181 took an HIV test and received counseling at a local partner NGO, CEPRESI. The Combination Prevention Program is able to know the precise and accurate information stated above thanks to the use of a unique identifier code (UIC) system which allows it to track the progress of a person reached by the Program. For each person such as PUM3181, the Program generates this code with personal information that does not change over time but protects the confidentiality of the person and allows him of her to remain anonymous. The unique identifier code is comprised of 7 digits starting with the first two letters of the surname; M-F-T to identify whether the person is male, female or transgender; the person’s birth date and the last two digits of the birth year. In 2011, the Program piloted the UIC in two countries and with two target populations and found a 0.2% probability that two people share the same UIC, thus ensuring that it is reliable. The information provided by the UIC is complemented with the use of a voucher system that identifies the type of population with geometrical figures and sequential numbers. The Combination Prevention Program uses a holistic approach that is centered on individuals who are most at-risk and vulnerable to HIV as well as persons living with HIV in the region. Moreover, it works to reach these populations with a tailored minimum package of key prevention services, products and information including behavior change interventions, information and access to condoms and water-based lubricant, access to biomedical services such as HIV testing and counseling, the diagnosis and treatment for STIs, and early antiretroviral treatment. The minimum package also includes referrals and access to complementary services that address structural factors such as treatment for alcohol and drug abuse, family planning services, legal support, support groups, among others. The unique identifier code is the system that allows the Program to track each individual’s access to this minimum package. During the 2012 fiscal year, the Program collected a total of 55,993 unique identifier codes, which represent almost 56,000 individuals such as PUM2181 who were reached with combination prevention activities. Moreover, 3,388 of these UICs completed a combination prevention cycle by accessing the minimum package of products and services as established by the Program. The UIC also allows the Program to know that “ALM2267” is a Guatemalan man who was reached with behavioral interventions in January and March. In January, he also received HIV testing and counseling services, and in March was referred to services to screening and diagnosis for STIs as well family planning counseling he received with his partner. This type of information is key, not only for the Program to know exactly how many individuals are reached and with what services, but also for the follow’up of each person over time and the development of strategies to achieve the Program’s objectives. The unique identifier code system has also been shared with other key partners in the region. For example, in Belize, the National AIDS Commission has adapted the UIC and added two digits to identify the district where the person lives and if it is a rural or urban area. This is now the code used in Belize at a national level. In Guatemala, the Program has been working with the Global Fund and National AIDS Program for the use and/or adaptation of the UIC given the evidence of its effectiveness and relevance for adequate monitoring of Programs targeting most at-risk populations with HIV prevention and care.